While MVP, Offensive Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year receive all the attention at NFL Honors, there is no higher honor than being named Walter Payton Man of the Year.
That's because the award goes to the player recognized for the greatest involvement in his community.
An esteemed list that takes beating 31 other terrific candidates on a yearly basis, Heyward has completed one of the most rewarding tasks in pro sports:
Heyward Wins WPMOY At 2024 NFL Honors
When Heyward was nominated for the award, he was humbled and thankful to represent the team and community yet again, as this year was his sixth time and third year in a row that he represented the team:
"Pittsburgh has meant so much to my family," Heyward told Steelers.Com "To get to play in this league right next door to where my dad started his football career has been really special. It's important to me to give back to this community that has blessed my family in so many ways."
So while it took longer than he probably anticipated, Heyward's patience has paid off, as he proved the sixth time is a charm on Thursday night.
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